Jennifer Hudson Steals Scene in "Dreamgirls"

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Former American Idol contestant Jennifer Hudson talked to The Envelope about her upcoming movie Dreamgirls, in particular the filming of the scene in which she sings "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" -- the classic tune that Jennifer Holliday sang in the original Broadway stage version that ran in the early '80s, and which helped win the actress a Tony Award. Can the former Idol fill those shoes? It looks like it.
Tom O'Neill, The Envelope's scribe, is calling Hudson's scene the most anticipated in one of the most eagerly awaited movies of the year. Director Bill Condon apparently fretted so much over shooting it that he saved it for last and shut down the set so no one could spy on it. Something about the scene clicked, though -- Hudson is already drawing rave reviews.

"All early buzz indicates that Dreamgirls is about to transform Hudson into a superstar," O"Neill writes. "[And] she's already the frontrunner for the Supporting Actress Oscar."

Dreamgirls, which is scheduled for release this winter and also stars Jamie Foxx, Beyonce Knowles and Anika Noni Rose, really showcases the American Idol contestant's voice. Hudson belts out three tunes like a champ, critics say, portraying her character, Effie White, with punch and heartache. More than a few are calling her the favorite for an Oscar.

Hudson (right, along with co-stars Rose, left, and Knowles) beat out hundreds of professional singers and actresses for the part, including Fantasia Barrino, who went on to win the third season of American Idol -- the season in which Hudson finished 7th among the 12 finalists. Fantasia is, however, playing herself in a biopic airing this weekend on Lifetime.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.

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